Imhotep: The Duel (2018) Board Game

Imhotep: The Duel is a two-player board game that was released in in 2018. It is based on the original Imhotep board game, which was designed by Phil Walker-Harding and published by KOSMOS. The game takes place in ancient Egypt and players take on the roles of rival architects competing to build the most prestigious monuments.

Game Components of Imhotep: The Duel

Game Board: A central board with six boat ports and a reserve area.

Location Tiles: Double-sided tiles for each player, with A and B sides offering different scoring mechanisms.

Player Figures: White and black figures for each player.

Boats: Six boats that are loaded with tiles.

Tokens: Various types of tokens, including action tokens and tiles for monuments like obelisks, pyramids, tombs, and temples.

Site Boards: Each player has their own set of site boards, also double-sided, for building monuments.

How To Setup Imhotep: The Duel

To set up the game, place the board in the center and position a boat in each of the six available ports. Shuffle the tokens and place three face-down in the reserve and three on each boat. Each player receives a set of Location Tiles on either the A or B side, ensuring both players use the same side. Each player also gets their player figures.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Actions:

Place a Figure: Place one of your figures on an unoccupied space on the board.

Unload a Boat: Unload a boat that has at least two workers (which can be either player’s workers) in the same row or column.

Use a Blue Token: Play an action token to gain an extra benefit, such as placing additional workers or modifying the game state.

Objective: The goal is to build the best monuments (obelisks, pyramids, tombs, and temples) by collecting and strategically placing tiles to score the most points.

Player Experience

In **Imhotep: The Duel**, players take on the roles of Nefertiti and Akhenaten, competing to build the most impressive monuments. The game is highly interactive, with each player’s actions directly affecting their opponent. Players must strategically place their figures to unload boats, acquire valuable tiles, and build their monuments. The game requires a mix of planning, strategic thinking, and a bit of mischief to disrupt the opponent’s plans.

Pros

High Player Interaction: Every choice affects the other player, making the game highly competitive and engaging.

Strategic Depth: Multiple tile types and different scoring mechanisms on each side of the player boards add layers of strategy.

Quick Setup and Playtime: The game is easy to set up and can be played within 30 minutes, making it ideal for multiple plays in one evening.

Replay Value: The double-sided boards and different tile scoring mechanisms ensure high replayability.

Cons

Aggressive Gameplay: The game can feel quite aggressive, as players need to disrupt their opponent’s plans to win.

Loss of Physical Components: Compared to the original game, **Imhotep: The Duel** has fewer physical components, which some players might miss.

Not Suitable for All Players: The game’s competitive nature might not appeal to those looking for a more cooperative or friendly experience.

Personal Thoughts on Imhotep: The Duel

**Imhotep: The Duel** is an excellent choice for fans of two-player games and those who enjoy strategic, competitive gameplay. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate the original **Imhotep** but are looking for a more streamlined and intense two-player experience. While it may not be as complex as some other duel games like **7 Wonders: Duel**, it offers a unique and engaging experience that is well worth adding to any board game collection. If you already own the original game, it’s worth considering this version for its tailored two-player mechanics and enhanced replay value.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.